France: Key priorities for 2026 and numbering reforms

Similar to the EU priorities, the France’s communications regulator’s — ARCEP — key priorities for 2026 include: 

• engaging with the EU Digital Networks Act proposal (due 20 January) to modernise the European Electronic Communications regulatory framework;
• deepening cloud services regulation with a focus on interoperability and Data Act implementation;
• reaffirming net-neutrality principles extended to emerging AI ecosystems;
• completing the transition to ultra-high-speed networks with continued fibre and 5G rollout whilst managing the phased closure of legacy 2G/3G networks affecting 5.6 million SIM cards;
• objectively measuring and addressing the digital sector’s environmental footprint and sustainability;
• and strengthening network resilience and cybersecurity requirements, particularly as new infrastructure actors enter in the market.

Additionally, we expect ARCEP to oversee the implementation of France’s new Numbering Plan, entering into force on 1 January 2026 and we take a closer look at these requirements below.

New revision of the Numbering Plan in France

ARCEP has released a new update of the French National Numbering Plan, which entered into force on 1 January 2026  (with certain provisions taking effect at later dates). This update follows the series of adjustments made by ARCEP since 2018 and aims to modernise the framework governing the allocation and use of numbering resources, while incorporating the new requirements introduced by the Act of 30 June 2025 on combating fraud involving public aid.

Below, we explore the key measures adopted by ARCEP.

Strengthening the fight against caller ID spoofing

In response to the continued rise in caller ID spoofing—despite the authentication mechanisms introduced in recent years—ARCEP is strengthening the rules applicable to operators. Several thousand reports filed in 2025 via the "I alert ARCEP" platform prompted the French regulator to implement new measures:

1. Masking of the caller's number when an unauthenticated call using a French mobile number is made from abroad: Unlike the draft submitted for consultation which considered displaying a generic number ("99 99 99 99 99"), the final version of the Numbering Plan requires masking the number to avoid confusion whilst still allowing calls to be completed.
2. Masking of the number when authentication information cannot be preserved: This measure was also adjusted compared to the draft submitted for consultation. ARCEP now requires that even when technical constraints prevent full transmission of authentication data, the original signature must be preserved to ensure traceability.
3. Strengthened rules governing the verification of numbers used by customers: Whereas the public consultation framed this as a recommendation, the final decision makes it mandatory for operators to contractually define the list of numbers each customer is permitted to use and to technically restrict usage strictly to this list. This obligation is intended to prevent any unauthorised use of a number from the moment a call is initiated.

Creation of a new category of numbers for public-interest purposes

Under the Act of 30 June 2025, ARCEP is creating a dedicated category of numbers for automated calls and messages related to public-interest missions. These numbers may only be assigned to entities designated by a joint order of the ministers responsible for consumer protection and electronic communications.

Strengthened management of numbering resources in the French overseas territories

To address increasing pressure on numbering resources in several overseas territories, ARCEP is introducing new measures, including the allocation of additional number blocks, improved use of existing ranges, and the creation or expansion of ranges tailored to local demand.

Additional measures to protect users

1. Stricter rules on the use of high-rate short numbers as caller IDs: ARCEP confirms the prohibition on using such numbers above certain tariff thresholds, whilst specifying in the final version that this measure will take effect on 1 July 2027, giving operators and service providers sufficient time to adapt.
2. Temporary freezing of numbers after termination before reassignment: This measure—particularly relevant in cases of technical line closures (for example, during copper switch-off)—is confirmed: numbers are frozen for a defined period, allowing the former user to request recovery before they can be reassigned.

What does this mean for operators?

Operators must now update their processes to comply with these new obligations. Immediate action is essential, and includes conducting comprehensive audits to identify affected numbering resources, assessing current technical architectures for compliance gaps, and developing detailed implementation roadmaps with clear timelines.

ARCEP published a press release here. The new Numbering Plan decision is available here.